[McLean's theory. Which brain model for which psychiatric practice?].

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the evolutionary considerations of McLean about the "Triune Brain". This author described by this term a hierarchy of three-brains-in-one, consisted by three evolutionary formations, radically different in structure and in chemistry. They are characterized as reptilian, paleomammalian, and neomammalian. Each of them plays an important role in the regulation of behavior, but there heterogeneity can induce schizophreniform ideas and feelings. Mc Lean speculations about Psychiatry emphasize genetic and biological factors in the genesis of mental disorders and lead to neglect the role of socio-cultural and familial factors.